Thursday, January 2, 2025 Commuters returning to work in early January 2025 are facing significant delays on the London Underground, particularly on the Piccadilly Line. Transport for London (TfL) has reported that extensive leaf fall two weeks earlier caused damage to train tracks and carriages, leading to part-suspensions and severe service disruptions. The suspension between Uxbridge and Rayners Lane has entered its second week, adding strain to already busy commuter routes.
Travelers have been advised to use alternative lines, such as the Metropolitan Line , to complete their journeys. TfL explained that large volumes of fallen leaves create slippery conditions on tracks, increasing the likelihood of damage to train wheels and rails. This issue necessitates the temporary suspension of services during certain weather conditions.
While TfL employs an annual action plan to address the problem— including trackside vegetation clearance and the use of specialist engineering trains—extreme cases like this season’s high leaf volume can still overwhelm the system. A spokesperson emphasized the challenges posed by seasonal weather, noting that part-suspensions, while inconvenient, are necessary to ensure passenger safety and prevent further damage to infrastructure. The Piccadilly Line has been particularly affected, with severe delays for the second consecutive week.
The section between Uxbridge and Rayners Lane remains suspended, leaving commuters to find alternative routes.
